IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Vesicoureteric junction calculus

Case contributed by Davison Dzamatira
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Intermittent left flank pain

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Male

Ovoid hyperdense calculus in the left vesicoureteric junction with upstream left hydroureteronephrosis, renal AP pelvis diameter 19 mm.

Case Discussion

Uncontrasted computed tomography (CT) is the investigation of choice given its high sensitivity (>95%) and specificity (>96%) for the diagnosis of urinary tract calculi 1. In addition to being readily available and having short scan times, CT has the ability to demonstrate alternate causes of flank pain in 10-14% of patients suspected of renal calculi. Direct visualization of a calculus in the lumen of the ureter with upstream ureteric dilatation is a common finding 2.

Although not performed in this case, prone CT studies are often preferred since they allow distinction between a calculus retained in the intravesical segment of the distal ureter and one that is already passed into the bladder.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.